Page 58 of Lost to the Woods

“Okay, I don’t want to do this,” I blurt, already half-turned back toward the car.

“Hey, it’s just the woods,” Nate says, trying to sound reassuring but coming off more as if he’s trying to convince himself. He’s already holding a walking stick like a cross.

“Bun, you promised!” Kendra is instantly at my side, grabbing my arm like a woman possessed. “Don’t chicken out on me now!”

“I don’t feel good. Like, legit.” My stomach churns. “You guys go without me. I’ll stay in the car with the AC on, hydrate, maybe cry a little—”

“No! You’re the star of the show! I need this check!” she hisses.

“Your check will be fine,” I say flatly. “Ghost has a much bigger following. Let him go flash some abs in the woods and you’ll be a millionaire.”

“That’s not the point!” she whines. “People expect Bunny! You’re the face!”

“I can’t. I feel like I’m going to have a panic attack.”

“Take all the time you need. We can wait,” Dev proposes.

I open my mouth to come up with another excuse, but get interrupted instantly.

“Bunny, please,” Kendra pleads, dialing it down. “Do this for me?”

I groan. Emotional blackmail. Classic Kendra.

“You’ll be fine,” Ghost says casually. Too casually. Like he’s enjoying this. “Just remember not to look up at the trees.If you see eyes staring at you, don’t stare back. And don’t run through the woods unless you want to be chased.”

I blink at him. “Are you trying to freak me out even more?”

“Not at all!” He lifts his hands in the air, now in leather gloves for whatever reason. “I’m just warning you. These woods are full of cannibals, ghosts, cryptids… You really wouldn’t want Mothman catching you out here. I hear he’s into pink hair and big boobs.”

“Oh my God,” I whisper, hugging myself. “I knew you were evil.”

“It’s actually West Virginia lore, no need to fear the Mothman here,” Nate responds, all serious and shit, not realizing how unintentionally hilarious he is.

“Why are you giving her such a hard time, man?” Dev asks, half-laughing, looking at Ghost over his shoulder as he zips up his backpack.

“Because it’s fun,” the asshole replies without missing a beat—and then smacks my ass.

Right in front of everyone.

What is wrong with this man?!

“Ugh, I hate your stupid face!” I stomp my foot like a cartoon character, which just makes everyone snicker.

“That’s funny because you had that stupid face between your legs last night,” Ghost retorts, stepping closer. “And correct me if I’m wrong, but you weren’t exactly complaining.” His large hand grips one of my butt cheeks through my tiny jean shorts, squeezing possessively. “You even begged for more.”

My breath catches, and I turn beet red. I can feel it.

Nate coughs loudly, choking on an inhale. Dev mutters “Jesus Christ” under his breath like a disappointed parent. And Kendra giggles, winking at Ghost with a thumbs up.

Lovely.

“Guys,” I say, turning to the group, clinging to the last shred of composure I have, “if we get separated, I’m withyouthis time.”

But before I can even move an inch toward them, Ghost’s hand grips my hip and yanks me against his firm chest.

“You’re not going anywhere without me,” he murmurs into my ear, his voice low and final.

I don’t know if I should fear the woods more… or him.

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